We get asked for the quantitive benefits of reclaimed lumber compared to virgin. We found this analysis from the USDA “Using reclaimed lumber and wood flooring in construction : measuring environmental impact using life-cycle inventory analysis”. to be a great resource and validation of the substantial benefits.
“Results from this life-cycle inventory showed that cumulative energy consumed in producing virgin compared to reclaimed framing lumber and wood flooring was about 11 and 13 times greater, respectively. Global Warming Potential was about 3 and 5 times greater, respectively.”
Buying something that has already been made is always more sustainable than brand new. this research shows reclaimed lumber is magnitudes better than virgin making lumber one of the most sustainable building materials.
